Many thanks to Heaven Media for supplying the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for review.
Usually, at LadiesGamers we write reviews of video games, however, for once this review is about a gaming product. So lately, I’ve been putting the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S and PC, through its paces.
PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S & PC
The controller, which is a lovely Cotton candy blue (other colours are available), isn’t only for Xbox Series X|S. The PowerA controller can also be used on Windows 10 and 11 PCs.
It arrived at my doorstep via post from Heaven Media in a well-packaged box. The box contains the cotton candy blue controller, a detachable 10ft (3m) white USB cable, and an instruction booklet.
Excited child at Christmas
After opening the box like an excited child at Christmas, I was keen to test the controller. It feels substantial in the hands, though not overly large. My hands would be medium-sized, and the controller fits into my hands comfortably. I can reach all the buttons without over-extending my fingers. The controller has a smooth, shiny finish on the top, and the underside is textured to help improve grip.
Ergonomically Shaped
The PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller is also ergonomically shaped. All the face and shoulder buttons are within easy reach of my fingers. It is a lovely solid feel in the hands, though it isn’t heavy to hold for long gaming periods. In addition, while playing for hours, the controller remained easy to grip. Even with my sweaty mitts holding it, thanks to the textured grip on the back.
The controller has the classic button layout we are all used to A, B, X, and Y face buttons. With Left, Right, ZL and ZR shoulder buttons and Left and Right sticks. All the buttons are responsive and have an excellent feel, with good spring back when pressed. The L and R sticks have anti-friction rings around the base of the stick, which seems to give the stick more support as you move them. A share button allows you to share screen grabs and short clips with fellow gamers or save screenshots of your gaming action.
The sticks perform as they should, and swivel well in their positions. But, of course, the overall test of how good a controller is will be months from now, as we all know how the dreaded stick drift can make the stick useless.
Two Advanced Mappable Buttons
In addition, there are also two advanced mappable buttons on the underside of the controller. The mappable buttons can quickly be programmed mid-game, which I tried out on my laptop as I played the Witcher 3. For example, I mapped Geralt’s sword to the mappable button and had a slashing time taking out some witches.
The PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller USB cable is detachable, so you can remove it when it is not in use. In addition, the cable reduces input latency and lag compared to a wireless controller, and I found that to be true with the Enchanted Wired Controller when I compared it to my wireless controller.
The 10ft USB cable is long enough for anyone’s needs unless you plan on playing your Xbox or PC sitting in your garden while your TV is in the living room though you might need binoculars to see your TV if that’s the case. The USB cable has a velcro strap on it to make it handy to keep the cable in one place when you aren’t using it. My only complaint about the cable is it’s white, white gets dirty quickly compared to black, but it does match the colour of the controller.
Rumble Feature and Stereo Headset Jack
This officially licensed Xbox controller features dual rumble motors, giving off a nice rumble. However, it is not an overly violent rumble like some controllers that can vibrate themselves off a table if you leave them sitting. But you do know it’s rumbled in your hand.
3.5mm Stereo Headset Jack
Most people, including myself, use Bluetooth headphones and earplugs nowadays. I did try out the 3.5mm stereo headset jack and plugged my Bose Bluetooth Headphones into it (they also have a 3.5mm stereo jack lead). The sound quality is quite good; wearing headphones enhances your gaming experience by immersing you further into the gameplay. There is a little clear switch on the controller, a headset dial, which is used to turn a mic off or on and change the volume.
However, while I was okay with using the headphones with the 3.5mm jack. In the end, it involved too many leads running between me, the controller and my laptop. I’d eventually tie myself in knots with all the cables. So, instead, I’ll continue to use Bluetooth headphones and use the controller for the purpose it is intended for, to control the game.
Overall, I like the new PowerA enhanced controller. I’ve used PowerA gaming accessories before and found them to be good quality. I’d recommend it to fellow gamers. If you are interested in the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S, and PC you can find it here and at most major retailers.
